Dallas Woman Overcomes 7 Heart Surgeries, Now Works with Care Team

Erin Hunter-McPhan, who underwent multiple heart procedures as a child, is now employed at the hospital that saved her life.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Erin Hunter-McPhan, a Dallas resident, underwent seven open-heart surgeries by the time she was 12 years old. After surviving these life-threatening procedures, she is now employed at the same hospital that provided her critical care, working alongside the medical professionals who helped save her life.

Why it matters

Hunter-McPhan's story highlights the remarkable resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact that quality healthcare can have on a person's life. Her journey from patient to colleague demonstrates the power of perseverance and the importance of accessible, compassionate medical care.

The details

As a child, Hunter-McPhan was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect that required multiple complex surgeries to correct. Despite the challenges, she persevered and is now employed at the Dallas hospital where she received her treatment, working in a role that allows her to give back to the institution and community that supported her.

  • Erin Hunter-McPhan underwent seven open-heart surgeries by the time she was 12 years old.
  • She is now employed at the same hospital that provided her critical care.

The players

Erin Hunter-McPhan

A Dallas resident who underwent seven open-heart surgeries as a child and is now employed at the hospital that saved her life.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so grateful to the doctors and nurses who cared for me. Now, I get to work alongside them and help others the way they helped me.”

— Erin Hunter-McPhan (wfaa.com)

The takeaway

Erin Hunter-McPhan's remarkable journey from patient to colleague at the hospital that saved her life is a testament to the power of resilience, compassionate healthcare, and the ability to turn personal challenges into a life's purpose.